Partizan is navigating a busy EuroLeague schedule with a newly adjusted lineup. Following a recent loss, legendary coach Zeljko Obradovic shared his thoughts on the team’s latest additions: center Bruno Fernando, who just made his debut, and veteran playmaker Nick Calathes, who is set to join the team soon.
The team is currently facing challenges at the point guard position due to injuries. Obradovic is counting on new signing Nick Calathes, a player he knows well, to bring stability and leadership to the offense. Meanwhile, newcomer Bruno Fernando is beginning to find his footing and showed promise in his first game.
💪 First Look at Bruno Fernando
Bruno Fernando played his first game for the team after just one and a half training sessions. Coach Obradovic noted that the 27-year-old center performed well, especially on defense. “He made two mistakes in defense in the second half, which is expected for a new player,” Obradovic explained. “It’s a process.” Fernando finished the game with six points and three rebounds in about 13 minutes.
🧠 A Veteran Playmaker Joins the Team
Obradovic expressed his excitement about the arrival of Nick Calathes, whom he described as a “real playmaker.” The two have worked together before at Panathinaikos, and the coach values Calathes’ ability to organize the offense and control the pace of the game. He also mentioned that the team operates on a modest budget and thanked the management for their quick action in bringing in two new players to strengthen the roster.
🏀 Overcoming On-Court Challenges
The team’s point guard options are limited right now, with Shake Milton and Carlik Jones both on the injury list. This has forced Duane Washington Jr. to play in the point guard role, which is not his natural position. “It is not easy without a playmaker, who must organize the offense, follow me on slowing down the pace, [and recognize] where the ball should go,” Obradovic said, highlighting the difficulties the team has faced.
📅 Looking Ahead
With the arrival of Calathes and the eventual return of Shake Milton, Obradovic is hopeful that the situation will improve. He noted that Milton will also need time to get back into rhythm after a long break from playing. Currently holding a 3-4 record, Partizan remains close to the playoff qualification spots and will continue to fight through the challenges ahead, starting with a game against Barcelona.
